Assessing the Impact of Project Management Practices on the Success of Construction Projects in Zambia: A Case Study of the Construction Projects in Lusaka between 2022 and 2023

This study investigated the influence of project management practices on the success of construction projects within Zambia, focusing on selected construction projects from 2022 to 2023. The research objectives aimed at assessing current project management practices and strategies, and identifying challenges for improvement. The study used theoretical frameworks such as Project Success Theory and Project Management Theory to analyse findings comprehensively. A qualitative approach was used for this study. Interviews were utilised to collect data from construction companies and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The research results identified key project management practices as being crucial for success, including comprehensive planning, effective risk management, clear communication, and robust performance monitoring. Challenges such as limited awareness, stakeholder engagement issues, and deficiencies in practical implementation were uncovered. The study recommends enhancing training, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and performance monitoring. Furthermore, gaps for research include exploring gender diversity, regional variations, sustainability integration, and longitudinal project performance studies. This study contributed valuable insights to the construction industry, aiming to optimise project management practices and foster sustainable development in Zambia.